A rare trace mineral in a handful of springs, lithium has a long folk association with calm and mood — hence historic "lithia springs".
Lithium is the rarest mineral on this menu and the most intriguing. A handful of springs carry trace lithium, and in the 19th and early 20th centuries "lithia springs" were marketed for their calming, mood-steadying reputation (the original 7Up even contained lithium). Pharmaceutical lithium is a serious psychiatric medication at controlled doses; the trace amounts in spring water are far lower and the soaking effects are not established — but the cultural history makes lithium springs a genuine curiosity.
How you'll know it
Invisible and tasteless — a rare trace mineral prized for mood association.
Traditionally good for
Associations from long use and emerging research — restorative, not medical claims.
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Long folk association with calm and steady mood
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The legend behind historic "lithia springs"
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A rare, sought-after trace mineral for collectors of springs
Good to know
Trace lithium in spring water is not a treatment for any condition. Medical lithium is a prescription drug — don't conflate the two.
Springs rich in lithium
Sources & further reading
For general interest, not medical advice. Benefit claims reflect long tradition and emerging research; the strength of evidence varies by mineral and condition.